Netflix Paying a Premium to Stream New Episodes of Popular TV Shows

Netflix has reportedly whipped out their wallet to ensure immediate streaming of currently airing primetime television episodes. With up to $70,000-100,000 per episode, Netflix has cut out the broadcast networks and gone directly to the studios, increasing the volatile debate over who owns what rights to the shows.

Netflix recently revealed a streaming-only subscription plan that rivals Hulu Plus' price. Hulu is owned by NBC, ABC, and Fox, allowing them access to the very episodes that Netflix is now obviously gunning for.

The difference is that Netflix is the only service (for now) that can be viewed via the PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, or Nintendo Wii, which gives them a considerable edge in the battle for home viewing supremacy.